Free performances of “10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse” promise family fun and a showcase for student talent
The undead are coming to Umatilla High School, and the Drama Club is inviting the whole community to enjoy the chaos. This season’s production, “10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse,” is a silly, comical look at the conventions of zombie movies and television programs, and admission is free.
Director Clint Hill chose the show for its lighthearted tone and its appeal to younger audiences. Many of his performers are inexperienced, and the play offered plenty of chances to get them on stage without too much pressure. Families with children need not worry about the zombies, either. Hill says the play would be rated PG if it were a movie. There are a few mildly scary elements, but for the most part it is a live-action cartoon that all but the youngest audience members can enjoy. He does ask that audience members be aware of one scene with flashing lights, in case that affects them.
Behind the laughs is a cast and crew of 18 students, with 13 on stage and five working in crew and tech. Seven of them are seniors in their final show: Merced Dickens, Rashayla McCallister, Lorelai Tesch, Nya Rodarte, Serenity Viesca, Darlyne Munoz Mendoza, and Sara Hill. For Sara, the production is a milestone. It is the 10th show she has been part of, having started acting in UHS productions in seventh grade.
Laughing is not just for the audience. The rehearsals have also been full of fun as the actors work with Hill to find gags and bits that bring the script to life. “There are an infinite number of ways to craft a performance,” Hill said, and the group’s collaboration is always exciting and surprising.
Keeping the shows free for the whole family was a priority for the club. “I want as many people to see and celebrate these students and their efforts as possible,” Hill said. “I don’t want anyone staying home because they can’t afford a ticket.” A partnership with the Umatilla After-School program helps fund the productions and makes paid ticketing unnecessary.
Hill hopes audiences leave impressed by the time and effort the students have put into the play, “as well as a side-ache from laughter!” He also has a request for those planning to attend. Seeing a full house when the curtain opens is one of the most exciting moments for student actors, and their performances improve the more involved and excited the audience is.
“Please come prepared to laugh, clap, and cheer on these amazing students,” Hill said.
You can see the play on the evenings on November 19, 20, and 21 starting at 7pm in the Umatilla High School Cafeteria.